SCOPE: Hemolysis is one of the main factors that can damage a blood sample. The availability of an intravenous line already placed pushes many nurses to use this route for blood drawing, even if it is known that this technique is associated with an increased rate of hemolysis compared to blood sampling with a needle. The aim of this work is to identify interventions that reduce risk of hemolysis if the blood sample is from a peripheral IV catheter.

METHOD: A review of relevant literature was conducted through the databases MEDLINE, CINAHL and Cochrane database of Systematic Reviews. RESULTS. Fifteen studies were retrieved. Factors such as the material and the caliber of the IV catheter, the presence of obstructions, the anatomical site, the permanence of the tourniquet, the difficulty of positioning of the catheter, the volume of the tube used and the skills of the operator are decisive in the risk of hemolysis of the sample. In term of cost and preferences of the patient, the technique of blood sampling from a peripheral IV catheter is preferable.

CONCLUSIONS: Sample collection through intravenous catheters is associated with significant higher risk of hemolysis. Take a sample of blood from a peripheral catheter to carry out an analysis and, at the same time, reduce the risk of hemolysis is possible if some precautions are followed.